Here’s a nice Audio Research Foundation Series VT80 amp, originally in silver, now in black. I also have what I believe are some original silver trim pieces. If you want those, I will see if i can safely pack them in the original carton with the amp or you can just pay me the extra shipping cost to send a second and smaller box your way. When I got this unit I got in touch with ARC and I ordered the optional tube cage for it along with a new “Certified Matched” tube set featuring the SE-spec KT150 tubes. In the two years since, I’ve put just 57.9 Hours on that factory tube set. As you may know, the early units were sold as VT80 with KT120 tubes (as this one probably was). Soon after launch, they went to the larger KT150 tubes and with that change alone, these units became VT80SE tube amps. There was no other difference between VT80 or VT80SE. The SE came by virtue of a simple tube change alone. Here’s how the manufacturer explains it, better than I can: https://audioresearch.com/product/vt80se/______________________________________The big change from the VT80 to the new VT80SE is upgrading the KT120 tubes to the higher performance KT150 output tubes. Everyone should know that we have been deeply enamored with the KT150 as we feature it in all of our other amplifiers, from the VSi75 to the REF 750SE. Its performance is unparalleled and its 3,000 hour average life allows years of uninterrupted listening. The VT80 was originally designed with the KT120, the predecessor to the KT150, but these two tubes are electrically interchangeable and the demand for delivering the VT80 with the KT150 could be ignored no longer.It is important to mention that the KT150 tubes supplied by Audio Research, for all of our products, are tested and measured for quality control and assurance, and are burned in for 48 hours. Then using our “Certified Matched” process, they are hand matched in sets with tolerances 10x tighter than standard off-the-shelf tubes, thus ensuring the finest audio quality possible.With its auto-bias design, the VT80SE can also be used with KT120 or KT150 output tubes and the circuit will adjust immediately when a new tube is installed. Protective fuses are installed for each output tube and can be replaced if the need ever arises. What sonic improvements will you hear with the VT80SE? As our Warren Gehl said, “More music!” Tonal color, detail, dynamic swing and purity are all improved, along with a bigger and more robust presentation. The music gets better, in every way.Aside from the beautiful curves of the KT150 tubes, the only other way to distinguish the SE from the original VT80 is by a small sticker on the rear panel. Nothing else needed to change. The existing (optional) ventilated tube cover can be used with the taller KT150 tube set, there is still sufficient space to breathe. Hear for yourself how good your system can sound with the new VT80SE, it will make a tube-lover out of anyone who loves music.___________________________________________________Link to the manual: https://audioresearch.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/VT80SE-Manual.pdf The sound is phenomenal, as I’m sure you already know about these units. They engineered a first-ever auto-bias system for the tubes in these amps so you can put that little plastic screw driver away from prior AR amps! Used with care in my no-smoking home. You’ll get the manual and original power cord all in the original double-boxed factory carton. See a separate listing for my PS Audio DirectStream Mk I DAC with the streaming Bridge II module.Reviewed 6 years by TAS: https://www.theabsolutesound.com/articles/audio-research-vt80se-power-amplifier/Serial #49745 for this unit and the box label is included in my photos.

Good working condition with just some slight edge wear, not bad though, great sound!! Enhance your home audio experience with the Acoustic Research Bookshelf Speakers – AR-215PS. These high-end speakers boast a powerful RMS power of 100W and an impedance of 8 ohms, delivering exceptional sound quality with every use. Measuring 6 in length, 7 in width and 10.25 in height, these rectangular-shaped speakers come in black and feature a driver size of 5.25 inches. They are wired for connectivity and come with an array of impressive features that are sure to impress audiophiles. Get your hands on these Acoustic Research Bookshelf Speakers now and take your home entertainment to the next level!

For sale is an Audio Research SP15 hybrid preamplifier with its external SP15S power supply and brand new factory boxes in very good condition. Our tech has gone through and confirmed this preamp is in perfect working condition. Cosmetically there are some signs of use along the top edges of both pieces, and some scratches on the sides that can be seen in the pictures. But there are no blemishes that can take away from the sonic beauty of this preamplifier! The SP15 is an amazing preamp that has garnered a lot of attention in the hifi world since its release in the 1980s. This is one of those pieces of gear that you have to consider when it pops up on your radar. Specifications:Frequency response: 0.2Hz to 100kHzTotal harmonic distortion: 0.005%Gain: 75dB (MM), 29dB (line)Signal to noise ratio: 76dB (MM), 110dB (line)Output: 2V (Pre out), 80V (Pre out Max)Valve complement: 3 x 6DJ8/ECC88Dimensions: 480 x 134 x 260mmWeight: 6.4kgAccessories: separate SP-15PS power supplyYear: 1988 Decibel Audio is a retail store and custom installation business in the Wicker Park neighborhood of Chicago. We have serviced the Chicagoland area with new, used and vintage equipment for over 20 years. Visit our brick and mortar store at 1429 N Milwaukee Avenue, Chicago, IL 60622. We are authorized dealers for AKG, Audioengine, Audioquest, Bellari, Bluesound, B&W, Cambridge Audio, Cary Audio, Clearaudio, Cleer headphones, Dali, Denon, Draper Screens, Dynaudio, Grado, Harbeth, Hegel, Iso Acoustics, Jolida, JBL Pro, James Loudspeaker, KEF, KLH, Lehmann Audio, Marantz, Music Hall, NAD, Ortofon, Parasound, Pro-Ject, PSB Speakers, Plateau, Rega, Rogue Audio, Russound, SONOS, Samsung, Skylan, Vicoustics, Yamaha, and more. All shipping is via UPS or USPS as noted in each listing, unless other arrangements are made. Buyer is responsible for reviewing cosmetic condition detailed in photos before bidding. You are welcome to pay with Visa, MC, Discover, AmEx, Etc. We prefer Paypal for international bidders. Local customers are welcome to view and pick up auction items during store hours. All customers must pay Illinois Sales Tax if picking up in store. Illinois residents please add 10.25% sales tax for shipped items.

Acoustic Research 215-PS 2-Way Bookshelf Speakers Excellent Condition. 10”x7”x6”